Parsley Uses and Health Benefits – Properties, Benefits and Contraindications of Parsley
There are two types of fresh parsley frequently found in markets and other food shops. They are commonly known by their descriptive names: curly leaf parsley and flat leaf parsley. Curly leaf parsley, also called French parsley, is often used as a garnish. Flat leaf parsley, also called Italian parsley, has a stronger flavor and is used more frequently as an ingredient in salads and cooked dishes.Parsley has many vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can provide important health benefits. It is a particularly rich source of vitamin K. A single tablespoon of fresh chopped parsley provides more than 70% of the recommended daily intake.
Parsley also contains a good amount of vitamin A and antioxidants known as flavonoids. Parsley contains a large amount of the flavone apigenin. While cooking and/or drying may reduce some of parsley’s other health benefits, it increases the apigenin available in parsley. In fact, dried parsley is the best natural source of apigenin.Diuresis is the process in which your kidneys make extra pee in order to get rid of a substance in your body. Parsley works as a powerful natural diuretic and can help reduce bloating and blood pressure. Parsley is loaded with vitamin K, which has been linked to bone health. The vitamin supports bone growth and bone mineral density.
One study on parsley found that it helped protect against osteoporosis in rats.
Eye Health
Parsley contains vitamin A, which helps protect the surface of the eye, as well as lutein and zeaxanthin, two antioxidants that help prevent age-related macular degeneration.